Getting to Know Chelsie Foran

What is your official title at Novus?Research Manager, Biology

How long have you been with Novus?Just over 3 years

In your current role what is the most interesting thing you do?New, innovative research. Right now, I’m really interested in the epigenetic study in sheep looking at the effect of maternal nutrition during gestation on the lamb.

Which product of Novus’s is your favorite?MINTREX®: it’s being tested in so many different areas - woody breast, footpad lesions, and gut health in broilers; mineral tracing and epigenetics in ruminants

What accomplishment or moment in your career are you most proud of?I conducted two calf studies that have significantly contributed to a model that will hopefully soon be used with customers to evaluate the mineral status of their animals.

In your opinion, what is the biggest challenge facing the animal agriculture industry today?The public’s lack of knowledge and understanding of the industry is still something we are faced with daily.

What would be your first move if you were tasked with helping the industry overcome that challenge?Set up a program that would better educate the public about the different animal production industries and why certain types of housing and production systems are used – to increase efficiency, production, and maintain better animal health. Also, I would aim to help them understand the meaning of anthropomorphism and how detrimental that is to the industry.

When you are not promoting Novus products what do you like to do?I like to read and do anything outdoors

If you could go to dinner with any 3 people dead or alive, who would you choose?Jesus ChristMy Aunt NeldaDolly Parton

If you had to choose only one book for your library, what would it be?The Bible